Thermal cameras: a pocket-sized superpower for spotting hidden home problems

Thermal cameras arrive as standalone units, smartphone dongles, or built-in smartphone sensors and reveal heat patterns invisible to the naked eye, enabling energy audits, electrical fault detection, damp and leaks, pest clues, and component faults. They range from affordable sub-$100 options to professional-grade gear; the author stresses learning by use—carry one and test everything—to build skill and catch issues early, with real-world savings like identifying a loose wall switch that prevented a bigger, costly problem.